How Authoritarianism Can Happen in America w/Amanda Carpenter

In this conversation, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram are joined by Amanda Carpenter, an author, writer, and editor at Protect Democracy. They discuss the potential rise of authoritarianism in America if Trump is reelected and how his administration has focused on consolidating executive power and dismantling checks and balances. They highlight the importance of institutions like Congress, the courts, and the civil service in containing authoritarianism, but express concerns about their vulnerability.

They also discuss the role of elections as a constraint on authoritarianism and the need for a broad opposition network to counter its rise. The conversation explores the potential threats to democracy and the role of various institutions in safeguarding it. The principal themes include the importance of focusing on priorities that protect the right to disagree and resolve differences through elections, the role of the media in countering authoritarianism, the impact of Trump's manipulation of the church and religion, the potential challenges in confirming Trump's cabinet in a second term, the exploitation of unconventional legal arguments to solidify power, and the risks of future elections being undermined or delayed. The conversation emphasizes the need for voters to consider the consequences and make informed choices.

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Guest Bio:

Amanda Carpenter is a writer and editor at Protect Democracy. Her work involves collaborating with Protect Democracy advocates and experts to promote the organization’s mission, ideas, and key priorities. Before joining Protect Democracy she was a writer for The Bulwark and CNN Contributor. Prior to that she worked on Capitol Hill as Texas Sen. Ted Cruz’s communications director and South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint’s speechwriter. She brings over 15 years of political and media experience with her to Protect Democracy.